Urgent: Manhunt Underway for Wanted Federal Offender in Ontario

UPDATE: A nationwide manhunt is underway for Eric Richard Joseph Cardinal, a 39-year-old federal offender currently wanted after allegedly breaching his statutory release. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) issued a Canada-wide warrant, emphasizing the urgency of locating him.

Cardinal is known to frequent several northern Ontario communities, including Timmins, Magnetawan, Elliot Lake, and Toronto. He was last seen at his community residential facility in Barrie on October 9, according to Det. Const. Morley McGuire. His criminal history includes convictions for armed robbery, assault causing bodily harm, and multiple counts of failing to comply with court orders.

Authorities are asking for the public’s help in finding Cardinal, who is described as a 5-foot (152 cm), 160-pound (73 kg) man with a fair complexion, brown hair, and hazel eyes. He has a distinctive dragon tattoo on his right arm and is currently clean-shaven.

Police stress the importance of reporting any sightings or information regarding Cardinal’s whereabouts. Members of the public can contact the Provincial R.O.P.E. Squad at 1-866-870-7673, Crime Stoppers, or call 911 directly.

Cardinal is serving a sentence of three years and three months for serious offences, including robbery and criminal harassment. His escape from a supervised facility raises significant safety concerns for the communities where he may be hiding.

As the search intensifies, authorities remind residents in these areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The OPP is committed to ensuring public safety and is actively pursuing leads in this urgent matter.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.